Hope for “Dependents”
The life of a pastor in Uganda is an eye opener. We’ve been in Lira, northern Uganda.
We arrived to find the pastor hosting us in mourning. He just learned his 6 year old “daughter” died. She drowned. Digging deeper, we learned it was actually his brother’s daughter. Culturally, he considers his niece his own child. That’s important because his brother and his wife are both “sick” (meaning they have AIDS). The pastor embraces that their children will one day be with him in his home – his children.
We had only a short time with the pastor before he left to prepare for the burial ceremony. In that short time at his home, we found he now has 22 children he’s caring for. 7 are his biological children. The rest are “dependants.” These are orphans from relatives or nearby friends. The burden of care has fallen to the pastor, and they are family. He does all he can for them. This is the way – reality.
Hearing this, we surveyed other church leaders in the room. Each one cares for dependants in their homes. One man has no biological children with his wife. They have 5 dependants.
Here’s the problem…
There are too many dependants who have no one like the pastor or other leaders in the room. This extended family system is beyond saturated. Consequently, children suffer and die.
This is where you all come into play, GO family. We work with churches to expand their capacity to care for the children at the bottom – the ones with no support network. We don’t take the dependents from the pastor’s house. In this cultural fabric, they should be with him. Rather, we help the local church reach those who have no one to be dependent upon.
In Lira, the church has started its ministry to these hurting children. The first 20 girls arrived in care in June. Malnourished, sickly, scared, they arrived alive. Praise God. The local church body has poured love into these girls in a simple and safe environment. The children go to school, many for the first time. That’s not easy. For example, a 9 year old girl is enrolled in what we’d call kindergarten. It’s not easy. But it’s good.
Local church leaders are spending time with the children, each day. It’s not just the children and the mommas, alone. That’s the beauty of the local church. This is an extended family that has grown.
One church leader, Tomali Okao, is in her 60s. Her husband was murdered by the Amin regime, and she raised 7 of her own children and the dependents God placed in her care. Tomali now embraces these children as her own. She bought 20 small pine tree saplings and planted them with the children behind their homes to grow with them. Tomali has hope for the kids, offers great wisdom to them, and shows her love in practical ways. Tomali and many others now have more dependents, more family members. They just need a little help to carry this burden. GO family, you’re providing that modest help.
And look what can happen… Here are a couple of clips of the girls at Lira, just 2+ months since they arrived filthy, hurting, and malnourished.
Don’t get me wrong. There are and will be many challenges with these girls. But Jesus is much bigger than our circumstances, and He provides many, like Tomali, to stand lovingly in the gap.
Just take a minute to celebrate this scene. The girls just got home from school. They’re playing. They’re laughing.
God is good.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Kyotera kids
Here’s one more quick pic… Diton clowning with a bunch of the Kyotera kids. Thumbs up.
Kyotera Kids with Pastor Diton
Tomorrow, we head to a new village to be in Mbira, and then on to Kabale in SW Uganda (60 new children in care there).
I’ll blog as I can.
Thanks for your hearts, GO family.
On the move in Africa!
Today, I’m in Uganda. I’m here with Adrien and the Long Hollow Church leadership. We arrived late last night, and drove to Masaka this morning. We spent the day at Kyotera Village, one of our children’s villages here.
Wow, what a day. We were all blown away by the great work of the local church at Kyotera.
Kyotera is in Rakai District, the epicenter of the African HIV/AIDS pandemic (the first discovered AIDS case in Africa was in Rakai). 2 years ago, there was a lifeless plot of land along a red dirt road here, with an empty building once intended to be a church plant. Enter Pastor Diton, a Ugandan pastor with a heart to serve the poor. Diton started a church 2 years ago in the empty building.
In the last 2 years, this church has come to life in a huge way under Diton’s leadership. The church now cares for 84 orphans (most of whom were on their own from AIDS impact in the family), and has become a growing community influence. As Diton said today, the Lord is transforming this community from “the bottom up” as the church brings the neediest children into family at the church. As an example, I’ll tell you about Stephen in a minute.
The church’s faithfulness is being rewarded. Long Hollow is going to take on the kids’ care, add several more homes, and fund a school for 250 children here. This work is exploding of life!
Here’s a pic of some of the cute little children’s homes at Kyotera. Thanks so much to the following for giving the 84 a shot: Enegren family, Moyes family, Heiniger family, Seyferth family, Breckon family, Bicknell family, and Church of the Resurrection.
Joe
Children's homes in the Kyotera Village in Uganda.
Hope in Haiti
Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti
Can life change in six weeks? We know it can. Decisions become moments. Moments build into momentum, and life turns. We experience it personally. Haiti is experiencing it now.
It’s been six weeks since I’ve been back. When I stepped off the plane today, things were obviously better. From baggage claim to air quality, life is improving, but some things were still the same.
Rain still makes mud, and many people still endure in makeshift tents. With all the aid, this is especially mind-numbing and maddening. Yet, our team of 14 came with eyes wide open.
We’re from all four time zones and our ages span four decades. Despite our diversity, we all came to give and receive the love of a child. The joy of watching Hannah, my nine-year-old, play with her Haitian brothers and sisters in Christ far transcends my ability to describe it.
Yes, the battle still rages – hope and heartache in Haiti – but in the hearts of children we see that God can make all things new…and we are more than grateful. Nos Remen Ou! (We love you!)
Arriving at the Orphan Transition Village
Hannah leading story time.
Renise Matters
Hello, GO Family. Many of you have been faithfully reading this blog since Jan. 12. You’ve become attached to these children, like Renise.
On Saturday, March 20, Renise gave birth to her little daughter, Kimberly. We’ve been mum about the events surrounding that day, and the amazing God story that continues to unfold. During a dicey time of uncertainty for us (not for God), we needed to just be quiet.
Now we’re sending a full Renise update that Trace penned.
In the year before the earthquake, this little girl was sold into slavery by her parents; was sent back to her parents only to have her mother die in her arms; lived with her mother’s corpse; went back to her owners where she was sexually assaulted by 2 men at gunpoint; got fired from her slave work unworthy of even that; and was turned to the streets with a troubled pregnancy that would have taken her life. The earthquake freed Renise. Since January 12, she’s found a new hope in a most miraculous chain of events and the deep, daring love of others.
Guess where she’s at today? School. Her first day.
Hope. Love. Redemption. If you sometimes think these are words of mere bloated inspiration tossed about by preachers and politicians, consider Renise. The same God in her life is at work in yours. He can be trusted, even when the chips are down and we can’t understand.
Enjoy… CLICK HERE>> to read Renise’s story.
So There’s a Mom, a Goat Farmer, and a Pastor…
So There’s This Mom, a Goat Farmer, and a Pastor…
“I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me, and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
Some of my favorite stories are those that obliterate our secret doubts. These stories branch off in so many wild God directions. Let me spot a few in this blog. Here’s the first installment… It’s about a mom, a goat farmer, and a pastor.
Cynthia Lewis – Pharmaceutical Sales (2007).
She’s 4 foot something of pure energy. Works at Pfizer. Sharp. Gunner. Athlete. A get it done lady.
In January 2007, Cynthia and husband, Adrien, go to Haiti. They leave the worries of life behind to go and “help orphans.” Many of you know the drill. God turns the tables. They meet children with no material possessions or parents, overflowing with love and joy. The givers receive. Hearts warm. Change stirs.
What now?
There has to be something really BIG God’s asking of her to help rescue orphans around the world.
She prays. Indeed, there is something pounding on her, but not what she expects. Cynthia’s convicted that she needs to be at home with her and Adrien’s two little ones, not bull charging at Pfizer. Leave a career? Stay at home? Our world regards this giant assignment as little, not big. What the heck?
So many moms at home feel overwhelmed, unplugged, and unusable by God. That’s a lonely place to be. It sure doesn’t feel like a big, sexy assignment – and certainly doesn’t address Cynthia’s heart burden for the children she’d met.
Still, she listens. She enlists as stay-at-home mom.
Cynthia Lewis – Humbled Mom (2008).
About a year later, God opens a door for Cynthia and Adrien to give their testimony at Christ Lutheran Church in Overland Park. Adrien gets sick. Cynthia goes solo. No longer busting to sell and without a “here’s how I made it” story in the bag, a humbled mom openly shares her heart – for what it’s worth.
A week later, a man named Kevin McElyea shows up at our office. He’s an engineer and entrepreneurial goat farmer (if there’s such a thing, Kevin 
). He heard this lady testify about how God used orphans to change her heart. Gripped, God prompts him to action. He learns more. And his family funds a children’s home in Haiti. (By the way, as I write, Kevin’s in Haiti with GO Project to help launch a new ag development program.)
Kevin McElyea – Goat Farmer.
Kevin engages his mom and her small group from Long Hollow Church in Nashville, TN. The small group pitches in to help support the home with the McElyea family. Cathie Simpson at GO Project sends a “thank you” card to the small group’s church. The card hits the pastor’s secretary’s desk. She’s not sure who The Global Orphan Project is. She takes the card into a church leadership meeting; a meeting where the pastor’s exhorting Long Hollow to MOVE to address the problem of orphaned and abandoned kids in this world. But how he wants to know? Secretary plops the card on the table. Church leadership scrambles to the computer and looks up the website. The next Monday, Long Hollow sends 2 pastors to Kansas City to talk global orphan care.
Long Hollow – Church of Action.
Long Hollow sponsors a village in Jeremie, Haiti: a huge village. Soon, 300 kids will have homes and 700 a shot at school and a hot meal every day. There’s more. This church is infected. They’re partnering with Isabelle Redford (age eight) to sponsor another village in Port au Prince. 100 more children in homes; 300 more in school.
But wait, there’s more… Long Hollow’s planning villages 3 and 4 this year with GO Project: 1 in Africa; 1 in Asia. And the church is stoking the fire in other churches. Another Nashville church is taking a village, and a church in Louisiana.
All totaled-up: we’re talking about 800 orphaned/abandoned children from crud to homes and 2,000 kids in school – and just getting started.
Humbled Mom ? Goat Farmer ? Church of Action ? Thousands of Children.
Don’t believe the hype of the world; stop looking for the big, sexy thing; and give yourself a break from feeling insignificant.
Walk closely with Christ. Plug in. Stay connected. And watch the fruit burst to life all around you.
A lot of you have Cynthia stories, and don’t even know it this side of Glory. Be encouraged.
Now go out and play. It’s great outside.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Slice of Life
I’ve gone like a rabbit to hole on this blog. Sorry. Great to be back.
I just went to have a physical. First one since high school!
On the drive home from the doc, I’m wondering what else is going on right now? Yeah, there’s a lot of hurt and fear right now in Haiti. But look around.
Rogelin’s hanging out. Another team just arrived. He’s seen a lot of people come and go. He loves it. All the kids there do. But Rogelin’s got a different look on life, so he doesn’t get too high; pretty darn solid. He’s probably thinking about starting school. He’s definitely wondering whether he’ll get to see his sister. That’s dominating his mind. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Rogelin, in Kansas City, Minneapolis, and Miami, a team of lawyers with hearts undeserving of all your bad lawyer jokes are working through creative ways to re-unite Rogelin and his sister. God’s going to finish that story and is at work, now, on Rogelin’s case even as Rogelin thinks about whether it’s dinner time.
Renise is holding her baby wondering what’s next. But right this minute, she’s more at peace than she’s ever been. She’s safe. (More on that entire story next week – unbelievable)
Calix is loading his children into a truck, heading for their new home. He’s sweating and his heart’s pounding. What a ride. The earth shook. Walls fell. They starved. They pleaded to the Almighty. God provided. He sustained them. And now He’s starting them anew. Truth be told, Calix has mixed feelings right now. He’s happy and he’s scared. He’s turning that over to Jesus. Truck should be pulling out in about 30 minutes. Here we go!
And 4 hours north in Gonaives, our wonderful partner, El Shaddai, is still working through the basics of caring for 255 new children at 3 different local churches. 255 tooth brushes. 255 sheets. 255 bars of soap. 255 sets of clothes. 255 bowls, plates, forks, spoons. 255 children! Amidst this, the cooks there scramble to feed – 255 meals tonight! (255 more in the morning).
Right now, in the south, there’s a party being planned. C3 Global in Haiti opens a new store; a bizhub. Part Kinkos, part Office Max. Tomorrow’s the grand opening. Rob Boyer’s there smiling huge (way to go, Boyer). Yaniq, one of the employees, plans to sing praises to God at the ceremony tomorrow. She’s going through the song in her head, mouthing the words. Smiling. Today’s a day of a new kind of business.
And scattered throughout Haiti, contractors are working and people are meeting to make 10 new villages in 2010 reality. They’ll work into the night. This is their life. Work. That’s a BEAUTIFUL word – not a pain.
And a world away, in Lira, Uganda, workers have spent the day laying brick after brick after brick. Four homes, a kitchen, latrines. Kids are coming in 2 weeks. The committee finished “selecting” the first 20 children – a miserable lottery, because some kids won’t “win” this round. We have more to do, and we will…God willing. The same noble work in Kabale, Uganda.
And in Kyotera, Uganda, where more than half the population of women has been desimated by AIDS, workers moved in brand new beds. 48 children who once had nowhere to sleep will curl up in soft beds – soon.
In Malawi, 10,000 villagers in Daniel Village near Pathawira marvel as the landscape changes. What a sight. A church, a school, a place for the children they’ve had to painfully step over. They’ve heard lots of promises. Today, sure enough, they see Peter Maseko’s men busting their butts turning that vast expanse into a place of transformation. No more “maybe one day.” It’s here. All this through that humble little church of Peter’s!
Spring is here.
Thanks for your passion and energy. Stay tuned.
Not About Us
Trace Thurlby, Live from KC
For the first time since the earthquake, we’re all home in KC. We’re grateful for the opportunity to process, plan, worship with our families during Holy week, and prepare for what God has for us next. Sitting in an office using MS Outlook is different than making a Haitian hospital run in the back of a tap-tap. Yet, while the setting has changed, the Story remains the same: God is calling His people to care for His kids. It’s undeniable.
Duane and Vickie "Paying It Forward" again.
This morning we saw more evidence that Aslan is on the move. A blog from the Rust family told the story of God piercing their hearts to care for the orphan. He is now moving in miraculous ways on both husband and wife to adopt. Adoption is a beautiful thing! We also had Vicki Colvin and Duane Graber from Briarcliff Elementary stop by. Fox 4 recently recognized Vickie with their “Pay it Forward” award. Consistent with her heart for others, Vickie “Paid It Forward” again by giving the money she received from Fox 4 to care for orphaned and abandoned children around the world. Finally, Mike and Beth received an e-mail from a 5th grader in Texas…
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Fox,
My grandmother saw your website and thought it was very interesting because you are helping orphans all over the world.
My brother and I started a non profit organization called “Kids Caring For Kids“…several years ago we started donating part of our allowance. Last year we decided that we need to help more kids at the orphanage. We have been having different fundraisers and are also asking other kids around the world to do the same…The biggest problem we have is spreading the word… We think kids have the power to really change the world.
Do you think you might be able to help us out in getting our word spread around the world? I thank you so much for helping me if you can and the orphans will be so happy that you care about them.
Your friend, Ally Carpenter
At the GO Project, we couldn’t care less about building our own fiefdom. Caring for God’s children is God’s work. The task is monumental. The stakes are eternal. There’s plenty of room at His table for all who are called to serve. We celebrate the Rust’s family obedience! We’re humbled by Vickie’s generosity! We applaud (standing ovation actually!) the determination and commitment of Ally and her brother, and we’re so grateful you’ve accepted God’s invitation to join Him in (t)HIS work! We love you! Press on!
Haiti Earthquake Updates
Haiti Rescue Update (1/29/2010 7:58 am CST)
Via Joe Knittig;
“Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.” Matt 19:13-15
God is showing a divine creativity in bringing the children.
I’m on my way back from KC to the Village. And a funny thing happened on the way to the forum…
Mike Fox and I met a guy from Cypress about a year ago. He introduced us to a new GO friend from Australia, who now lives in San Francisco. That’s Bobbi Dunphy. Bobbi has a friend, a doc, serving now at a hospital in PaP. The doc has a problem. There are 10 orphans at the hospital with nowhere to go. Doc wants to help – he is compelled to help – but doesn’t know where to turn. Doc connects with Bobbi. Bobbi connects with us. We’ll take these little ones, and welcome them with a hot meal and lots of love. God willing, we’ll have them tomorrow.
Let them come, Lord.
We all have our roles to play, huh? We wouldn’t know of these children without the Cypress to Australia to San Francisco to Haiti to GO connections. We couldn’t greet them without your backing. And someone out there is going to sponsor a village that these children will call home. Individually, we’re in way over our heads. Collectively, we’re right on. That’s faith ALIVE. Thank you!
Please pray that there’s no interference to hinder these children coming to receive a new chance.
Haiti Rescue Update (1/28/2010 5:17 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
1 home. 47 more needing a home.
With NPR at his side, our ten-year-old friend, Johnny, returned to his home and to his Mom earlier today. Courtesy of your generosity, we sent Johnny off with a care package which included a 12-man tent and a large bag of food. Johnny and his family now are together and have a little wind at their back thanks to you and the rest of The GO Project family!
This afternoon World Vision introduced us to Julie, a Haitian woman who cared for 47 orphans. The earthquake destroyed their home, and Julie led her children out on foot headed for the Dominican Republic, literally an ultramarathon away. For the last several days, Julie has cared for her kids in two temporary locations, looking for someone to take them in. We will. That is what God has called us to do.
Early next week, our Transition Orphan Village will add 47 more children, whose resilience is inspiring, their current house Mommas, and Julie, a lady with a heart as big as Haiti
Soon after they are settled here, we will work with partners to create a GO village; a new home for these kids, who will know that God cared for them in the midst of crisis. They will feel His love through your love, and we will be here, on your behalf, to welcome them into our GO Project family. What a privilege to serve the Lord with you by loving His kids!
Medical Team Update (1/28/2010 8:57 am CST)
Via Charlene Garrison, Live from Haiti;
Our pastors on the team have just been awesome! They have prayed over the team as well as all our patients. Both Jim and John have had the opportunity to lead one person each to the Lord! John showed the card that asked ‘how can I pray for you and your child’ to each person and they were so excited to have their child prayed for. One mother asked who is Jesus and so John got the interpreter and shared the gospel to her and she accepted the Lord.
About 1/2 the team went to Biggarouse today to do a general medical clinic with the kids. They are all in good shape! We have one child that needs surgery due to a hernia and 7 that will be coming into Cambry tomorrow to see dentist Mitch.
The other half of our team is working at Brenda Hospital. They truly have been an answer to prayer as they have been able to care for many patients.
I could write much more but hope that gives you a picture of what is going on here.
Haiti Rescue Update (1/27/2010 10:58 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
Most families hold their reunion in the summer. This year, our GO Project family is having some great reunions the last week of January.
This afternoon, just hours after bringing him to our home, we were able to locate Rogelen’s sister, who lives in Miami. (Rogelen is the 15-year old who sought refuge with the 82nd Airborne after the earthquake.) His sister received word that their parents were dead, but knew nothing about her little brother. When we were able to connect them via phone, a huge celebration began that transcended the miles between them. We are committed to doing everything we can to reunite them. It won’t be easy, but as usual, God is way ahead of us. NPR was here tonight and interviewed Rogelen. NPR asked, “Rogelen, what would you be doing if The GO Project hadn’t picked you up today?” Rogelen answered, “I don’t know. I was thinking about selling myself to a family as a slave. That happens in Haiti.” NPR then asked, “What do you want to do now?” “I’d like to go live with my sister in Miami, finish my schooling and become a doctor.”
As you’re reading this on Thursday, we’ll be on our taking Johnny back home. Like Rogelen, Johnny was separated from his Mom when the earthquake hit. We picked up Johnny when he was discharged from Love a Child healing center. With some excellent directions from Johnny, we were able to find his Mom. Now his stitches are out. He’s walking without crutches, and he’s going home. This morning he told me, “I’m going to come visit you even after I get home. I will never forget you.”
Last night 13-year old Renise came to us, scared, alone, and pregnant against her will. Understandably, she was beaten down by her circumstances; couldn’t take her eyes off the ground. This morning she meekly waved to us. Later she sat by and watched our team unload a supply truck. This afternoon, Renise spent held hands with Beth “Momma” Fox. We learned that Renise has a beautiful smile. She’s a sweet, young girl.
World Vision came by today. After watching our kids jump rope, play soccer, and just cut loose a little, Sergio, their Dominican Republic Representative took my face in both of his hands and said with tears in his eyes, “This is the first time I’ve seen children having fun since the earthquake. Congratulations!”
“You should hear them sing,” I replied. “It’s a beautiful sound.” These are special children. They are the King’s kids. They are our brothers and sisters, and this family reunion has moments of great joy!
Tomorrow we will meet again with World Vision to see if we can bring hope to 17 orphans who need it. I appreciated Sergio’s affirmation, but we know the good we see is not of us. It’s the Lord, working through your giving hearts. Thank you for praying! Thank you for caring! Press on! Aslan is on the move!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/27/2010 1:53 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
We’re in the heart of Port Au Prince. If traffic is good, tonight’s GO Project boys’ soccer game will have a new star player. Rogelen is 15. He lived near Moise’s church, but lost both of his parents in the quake. As the 82nd Airborne was patrolling his neighborhood, Rogelen grabbed onto one of their legs and wouldn’t let go. The 82nd heard about The GO Project, and Rogelen is in our family now.
Rogelen claims to be quite a soccer player. I bet he’s right. He’s such a great kid! Thank you for giving him a home. Thank you for being his family.
Thank you, God, for sparing Rogelen and for the plan you have to give him a future and a hope! Amen!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/26/2010 6:47 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
He makes all things new…
I want to introduce you to our new sister, Renise. Renise is a sweet girl, 13 years old. Her parents died when Renise was 6. Before they passed away, they sold Renise to a family for cash. Last year on an errand into town, Renise was abducted, raped, and is now pregnant. Thrown out by the family she worked for, Renise has been living on the streets of Port Au Prince the last five months and was picked up today by UNICEF. They needed a safe, loving place for her and called us.
You have heard about our kids singing, playing, and laughing. Most of them are doing great! Their strength is a blessing and example to us. Renise is not there yet. Her wounds are too raw. She came in tonight alone and scared. She’s no longer alone, and soon, she won’t be scared anymore. Renise will soon learn she can trust us. She can trust you. This is a safe place for Renise and the child inside her. And as we love her, we will introduce her to Jesus. He can make all things new. Tonight, Renise has reason to hope. She will soon discover that she has a family; a Father who loves her greatly and brothers and sister (you and me).
I don’t know where Renise would be without your giving. On her behalf, I thank you. On your behalf, I will let her know that you love her. Thank you! Press on!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/26/2010 4:46 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
We are heading back from Port Au Prince. The highlight of the day was that we found Johnny’s mom. That was no small task in PAP, especially now. We took a picture of Johnny, who we learned today was separated from his mom at the time of the quake. We wont’ forget the joy on his mom’s face when she realized that her son was alive and well. Johnny will stay with us two more days as his feet recover. On Thursday, we’ll take him home to be with and hug on his mom. Tonight, we look forward to showing Johnny the picture of his loving mom.
Beth and I have a meeting tomorrow with the Haitian head of child protection services. The situation is fluid and the rules change on a dime. No worries! We are all in! God gives us the strength to run whatever route is in front of us.
Carrie “Flow” Davidson, RN, worked the nightshift at the General Hospital downtown. While many colleagues clocked out at 5 pm, “Flow” covered four peds tents (two critical care) as the lone nurse….she’s all in!
God has given us a great opportunity to be His Hands and Feet. What a privilege to help reunite Mother and son, to help James get surgery, to care for the wounded, to welcome and love the orphaned and abandoned! We can’t do this without you. This is your work, your ministry! We love you! Press on!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/26/2010 6:06 am CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
God continues to move for our little brother James. James has a large, deep wound on his face. While he’s fortunate to be alive, the resulting scar would follow him for life, unless someone did something BIG. God arranged it so our GO Project home at Eben Ezer is 20 minutes from a hospital called Love a Child. It’s quite a place. This morning, a plastic surgeon from Operation Smile is coming in. He will operate on James. Only God could have brought in an accomplished plastic surgeon to operate on a seven-year-old Haitian orphan. God loves James, and so do we. If you were here with us, he’d lift his arms wanting you to hold him. He recently snookered two people on our team to take him out of our recovery area and into our team’s room for a nap. He’s hard to resist. He’s part of our GO Project family now. Thank you for welcoming him into the family with us.
Pause the Stuff (for now)
You all are a machine! We have multiple 40? containers en route to the Dominican Republic, and ulimately to our depot at the Transition Village in Haiti. Tents, tarps, meds, food, beds, mats, etc…
For now, we need to hit the PAUSE button on non-cash donations intended for shipment to Haiti. We have a very targeted focus on the Orphan Transtion Village and related needs. We must be careful not to clog our distribution channels, or allow supply chains to overwhelm our staff and focus.
So three points:
(1) What we need most is cash donations. This allows us to stay nimble and meet needs as they arise, with speed and efficiency. Here is the link to our Haiti Relief Fund
(2) If you have bulk foods you’d like to donate, please contact us.
(3) In the coming days and weeks, we will likely have specific needs for additional goods. As we do, we will communicate them to you.
Thank you for being a community of ACTION! Keep it up.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Haiti Rescue Update (1/25/2010 2:01 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
. Kids abandoned at a hospital. Kids adopted into the GO Project family….because of you! We love you! Press on!A Surgeon’s Story (1/25/2010 7:47 am CST)
We’ve got a team of 17 folks arriving in Croix des Bouquets early this morning. Most of them traveled from Kansas City on Saturday, and many of them are clinicians. They spent Sunday in Fort Lauderdale hoping for a medical missions flight to Port Au Prince, but nothing would be available for days. So, they hopped a plane to Santo Domingo at midnight, landed there at 3 am, and took off for Croix on bus. They will be caring for the children brought to Eben Ezer and some will be making the drive down to Les Cayes to do the same there. Please keep them in your prayers!
Dr. Bill Gossman, a surgeon, has been at Croix for a while now. He has performed countless surgeries in Port Au Prince and overseen hundreds of patients. He has one scheduled this morning on a young boy with head trauma. Here’s his experience: ‘It is not unusual to be the only doctor for 300 patients! The doctors here are from all over the world and the French have sent a surgical team that are now doing surgeries. The horror is indescribable. Setting countless fractures, doing amputations and putting back dislocated joints all without anesthesia for the patients. These people are in horrible pain. There are people dying all the time of infections and injuries that are too severe to treat.’ He has seen and cared for some of the worst situations. Courage in the face of calamity. Thank you Dr. Bill!
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/24/2010 6:56 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
This morning, we drove through Port Au Prince, it often looked and smelled like the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Some of the worst parts of the city are by Moise Vaval’s church. We arrived at 7:30 am, and their corporate prayer had been going on for an hour by then. People sat on wooden benches that had been pulled from the destroyed church building. Consistent with Haitian hospitality, we were given the place of honor underneath the only tent they had. Just a few feet away the crumbled wall of their church lay on the ground. People came from the streets to worship. The same people who had their homes destroyed, who lost loved ones. These people sang praises to the Answer. For more than two hours they worshipped the King with all their hearts. The sun beat down, they lifted their hands in praise. Buildings fell, their belief in God still stands. Lives were lost, faith was found. After the gospel was shared, 14 people accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. “People are turning to Jesus” Moise said. Their hope is well placed. As they walk through the Valley, Jesus is with them. You are a part of His love here. Your gifts are being delivered. Your prayers are being answered. Thank you! May God bless your heart to help. Press on!
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/24/2010 1:23 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
30 children have been reportedly found by the press at 2:30 am this morning in the basement of a building. The GO Project has been working to verify, assess, and care for the kids. We may have 30 more children in our care soon. We are developing a great relationship with Hospital Generale. 8 more kids needing homes. There is such a need for what we are doing. Thank you for giving. Thank you for praying!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/23/2010 8:04 pm CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
Some days you reap. Other days you sow. An unbelievable traffic jam in Port Au Prince made the city nearly impassable. Drivers coming to get us for appointments were stymied, so today, we did a lot of sowing. Three tractor tractor trailors full of supplies were delivered. We loaded one dump truck with close to 10,000 pounds of food for our GO Project kids in other communities. Our new friends from Nebraska, Wisconsin, and New York (Carrie, Bill, and John) arrived and provided medical treatment for dozens in a nearby community. Rob Boyer’s Haitian-genius-friend, Blanchard, even found a Wi-Fi connection for us. Eureka! Yes, you heard that right. Hello, world! The ability to communicate just got a LOT easier here.
God is enabling us to build an operational system that can care for our growing number of Haitian children, independent of how fast the overall national recovery occurs. We hope macro-recovery happens quickly, but we simply can’t wait on that or depend on that. These children are too important, too precious. They are singing again tonight. We just checked on Moliva. She was in a bit of pain and needed some meds so she could sleep. It’s such a privilege to care for them in the name of Jesus with you! We love you! We’ll be in touch soon.
Haiti Rescue Update (1/23/2010 8:54 am CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, Live from Haiti;
Joe Knittig and Adrien Lewis left this morning for the DR. Both gave their all as servants of the King and now look forward to seeing their families who have been amazing in their support of what God is doing here. Please pray for their swift and safe return.
This morning Franzie (11 year old girl) was reunited with her Dad. We loved seeing them together! He was grateful for the care she received here, and we are grateful that God used us as a safe place for Franzie during a scary time in her life. The word is getting out that we are here, and we hope for more of these family reunions as a result. We recognize each one as a blessing and a small miracle.
This morning a one-year-old boy was brought to us with burns. 80 percent of his body was raw as a result of a post-quake accident in the home caused by a kerosene lamp the family was using, because they were without elecrtricity. Our on-site nurse examined him and was able to quickly move him to the nearest hospital. Please continue to pray for God’s healing Hand to move in Haiti. We see the pain and suffering here, but we see it through the lens of Jesus Christ, who loves us, who gave Himself for us, and who commands us to love one another. I hear our children here singing His praises in the background during their morning devotional time. A beautiful sound! Praise be to God from whom all blessings flow!
Big Aid – All Hat and No Cattle (1/22/2010 5:04 pm CST)
Via Joe Knittig, Live from Haiti;
Little ones – orphaned or displaced - are starting to flow in from the hospitals. Thank God.
These warriors serving at the hospitals are in a terrible position. They have these children. They’re setting bones, amputating limbs, cutting in impossible conditions. They can’t keep track of them in a sea of desparate need. Trafficers are free to waltz in and sneak out with the kids who are alone.
The hospitals and camps can’t wait for big hand wringing aid groups to formulate “strategies” in endless meetings.
We went to a Child Protection “strategy” meeting with major organizations. I kid you not… The next 4 days we can, if we choose, attend meetings for hours. No thanks. We can recognize a child left alone to die. We’d rather move NOW for that child. No meetings needed. It ain’t rocket science.
So enough!!!
We’re offering an option to the hospitals to give them the help they NEED. We’re getting the word out to them.
And now the neediest of children are coming. These are mainly little ones pulled from the rubble.
The first, a little boy with an IV and barely alive. No one knew his name. He is Patient 1013. He is in danger. Broke his pelvis and back, it seems. But he’s still fighting.
Pierre has a broken femur. Stanley will likely have his arm amputated. James has a head injury. Moliva has an infection in her leg. Franzia is scarred and disfigured. Etc…
All are beautiful. And they are bonding.
What a joy they are. Keep ‘em coming hospitals. They matter to you. They matter to us.
A Plan of Action Haiti Earthquake Update (1/22/2010 10:30 am CST)
The Global Orphan Project team has had some time to access and formulate a real, executable plan of action for our short term and long term needs in Haiti.
Download our ACTION PLAN HERE>>
New Life (1/22/2010 8:37 am CST)
From Trace Thurlby
Last night, the second baby was born at our transitional village in Croix des Bouquets. Weighing in at 6 lbs 8 oz, Maliko arrived just after midnight. It brings great joy having a small part in creating a safe place for a child to enter the world.
Took a short break from logistics and inventory management to play with a child this morning. A 2 year old named Kiki just needed to be held. She’s no different than my kids or yours. The same tears, the same beautiful smile, the same need to be loved. That’s why we are here and that’s why you give. Thank you!
A Haiti Rescue (1/21/2010 5:13 PM CST)
From Joe Knittig;
On our way home with a sweet boy with a winning smile! Welcome Pierre Pietel. Pierre has a broken femur – now casted. We promised him yesterday that we would not forget him. When he saw us today, he lit up! Today at the same hospital, a man tired to kidnap a boy. That’s happening. And that is why the transition village makes sense. Hospitals and camps are overwhelmed. They need a safe and IMMEDIATE outlet for the Pierres. We can’t wait for hand wringers to come up with “perfect” solutions. Trust me, predators don’t tarry.
Anyway, welcome little Pierre. He has a purple tee shirt and a small black plastic bag with a coloring book and snack – all given by the docs who love him. Those are his worldly possessions as he enters the exciting journey – the rest of his life. God bless you and keep you. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/21/2010 3:52 PM CST)
Via Joe Knittig Live from Haiti:
Just got done w a series of meetings at UN re identifying the orphans and displaced kids in a mass of humanity. And doing so in a way to prevent child trafficing, which is a serious problem in this mess.
Went well.
We’re in a position to help provide a safe, loving environment for the little ones NOW. That’s the huge need here. Risk. Urgency. Distribution. Execution. We guaranty that’s what you’ll get with GO Project. Good’s the goal. Not perfect.
We have a follow-up at UN noon tomorrow. Pray for that, please.
We’ll keep you posted.
Haiti Update: 2nd Team Engaged (1/21/2010 2:15 PM CST)
Via Trace Thurlby, live from Haiti:
We are starting to understand the working systems that Mike, Joe, Paul, Alan and others so quickly established. Basically we are running a small town with basic services: security, food, shelter, childcare, medical, etc. The interesting part is doing this in the middle of a third world country ravaged by earthquake on top of language and cultural differences. While we embrace the eternal importance of this work, sometimes we have to step back and smile. Today while unloading our supply truck we discovered about a ton of salami and about 40 crates of Haitian smoked herring. No, we didn’t order that. We’re not sure if the shipping company just threw that in to thank us for our business.
On a more serious note, Joe Fox, Mike Helmuth and Paul Dennison joined us today in Haiti. Beth is leading an effort to build records on all the kids we have here. Joe and Rob are at a very promising UN meeting to help find the newly orphaned. After that, Joe will go check on a great little guy named Pierre to see if we can bring him here. Pierre was orphaned and broke his leg in the quake. Adrien has coordinated the loading of trucks for one of our partners that will feed an entire town tonight. Processes and control systems are developed to handle two hundred plus more children and to do it well.
Your giving makes it all possible. Today Moise Vaval asked if we had an extra tent. A widowed Pastor’s wife lost her house and her husband. The last week she has slept in a field. Because of your generosity, we can help her! God bless you!
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/20/2010 8:00PM CST)
Via Joe Knittig live from Haiti:
Just picked up Stanley, he is pretty banged up – asleep in Beth’s arms in the car. Pierre, 10, has a busted leg. Well have to have that set tonight and come to his new home tomorrow morning. Many more Stanley’s and Peirre’s are now alive in Haiti. I’ll check in on the little guys tonight and keep posted here.
Thanks for you continued prayer and help.
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/20/2010 2:20 CST)
From Joe Knittig, live in Haiti:
While we were at the Hospital this a.m. the Lead Administrator and Doc had us leave with a little boy, orphaned, pulled from the rubble. We had to drive 2 hrs in a tap tap holding his IV bag. Barely hanging on. Don’t know his name or age. I think he’s about 4 – he’s about the same size as my little guy, Isaac. I consider today his birthday. Pray for him. Going back to the hospital to get more children orphaned by the disaster that the hospital has and cannot house. Many are injured. Doc Bill is going to be busy. Trace and Beth have arrived and are with me now. They’re like a breath of fresh air!
6.1 Aftershock Hits Haiti -Update (1/20/2010 10:00 AM CST)
From Joe Knittig live in Port au Prince:
Driving through PAP to Eben Ezer hospital, a sick boy needs immediate attention, injured from the most recent aftershock. Doctors and team are readying for his arrival back at Eben Ezer. In addition to and many other kids that are in need of help that we are bringing there. There is no room in PAP hospitals for them so we are having to begin taking these kids and help as best we can.
Continue to pray for Haiti and engage as you are led >>
6.1 Aftershock Hits Haiti -Update (1/20/2010 6:46 AM CST)
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti
We’re on our way to Carrefour, got a late start because a 6.1 earthquake hit a little while ago (Eben Ezer is fine). Entering the heart of Port au Prince now. We’ll keep you posted on further damage due to the new quake.
CNN Link >>
Update from Haiti (1/19/2010 6:52 PM CST)
From Joe Knittig in Croix des Bouguets, Haiti
36 more children showed up this afternoon to the transitional orphan village we have set up, I’m in the truck with 15 more right now, That’s 87 from one devastated community (where Moise’s church is). Not sure all the kids are “orphans” as we might think of them. What I am sure of is that all are in serious trouble and are without help. We’re confident that many of these kids can be reunited with family through the church when the dust settles.
Pray for that.
We’ll pick up the pace a bit tomorrow on penetrating the make-shift refugee camps. Kids who have lost parents are flocking there. They’re just hard to get in to with the mass of humanity. The air in PAP is brutal.
Update from Haiti (1/19/2010 3:35 PM CST)
One of the two trucks filled with water and food our field team has put to use as a cavan between the Dominican and our Transitional Orphan Village in Croix des Bouguets, Haiti. With so many images of devastation its fantastic to see real help getting to where it needs to go! No doubt that its a great deal of work to make this happen but somehow our team is making it all work well.
Also, an interesting article posted about how critical our transitional orphan village is and will be in the days ahead. Read it here>>
Live from Haiti (1/19/2010 9:00 am CST)
Our next two ‘food and supply’ trucks arrived from the DR this morning, it is perfect timing! Because, we have more children arriving at our transition village in Croix des Bouguets. Our team will be adding more and more kids because there are so many without parents, relatives, food, shelter in Port Au Prince.
Some of the team is riding is a broken down, bald tired, raggedy Suzuki to deliver food and water to a local orphanage of 151 children who are bone dry and without anything.
In addition to the desperate need for more food and water for orphans, they also need folks who will love on them and help them to recover and rejoice again. We’ll be updating our trips page on the web site with upcoming trips starting in February – they need you.
Haiti Update from Joe (1/18/2010 10:00 pm CST)
I felt the most at risk in the wee hours of the morning. Not on the streets. Not in an aftershock. But in a truck with 10 others. We were flying on a road heading north and a horse ambled out on the road… And stopped! We rubbed that horse’s bottom as we whizzed by.
Today was a day of prep for the next wave. We’re planning to scale the transitional orphan village. A lot of planning must occur on the fly. We are ready to rock.
As I write this, the kids are playing buckets as drums, singing, and dancing.
Look, the people here aren’t thugs. Hungry? Hurting? Heartbroken? Oui. But also helpful, hopeful, and humble. Look at these kids’ eyes and you’ll see. Feel their breath on your cheek when they crash in your arms. Listen to them rejoice. There is good news. You are investing in children here and in your own hearts.
We vow to keep telling you the good news.
I’m beat. I have a chance to slip in a bit of sleep and I’m taking it. I’ll get up early and give you more substance. What’s needed for the transition village? What else is needed? What about coming to serve? All that and more.
Goodnight.
Joe
P.S. To Dan Southerland. We connected with your buddy’s orphanage in PAP. 151 kids. One of their homes fell. They have some food. But they’ll go bone dry on water by tomorrow night. We’re bringing them water in the morning.
Haiti 2nd Team Update (1/18/2010 6:00 pm CST)
Our group of four leaves early tomorrow morning, and thanks to your generosity, they will have bags full of medications for the clinic at Eben Ezer. And, Team #3 is being assembled as I type – clinicians who will leave on Saturday and need even more medications and formula to take with them (if you are interested in going, respond quickly to info@theglobalorphanproject.org).
You all are an amazing Go Project family. The online giving and churches and businesses – we are awestruck by your generosity. And…please keep sharing the story and giving – as Joe shared last night ‘We’ll likely bring in hundreds more in the coming days, and, God willing, take care of many more than that in damaged and ravaged orphanages. If resources allowed, we could take into permanent care many thousands of orphans.’ You can make that happen!
Haiti Rescue Update (1/18/2010 10:00 am CST)
MP3 update from Trace Thurlby, take a listen: Haiti update 90 seconds 1-18-10
Haiti Rescue Update (1/18/2010 8:30 am CST)
Here are some fast updates:
- Our team of four is headed out early tomorrow morning from KCI, please pray for them and donate meds or baby formula to our C3 Offices today.
- There are some awesome folks who are stepping up in great ways to help: Ed Barber and our Buckhead church team from Atlanta are filling a 20ft container full of tents, tools, clothing, meds and baby formula that will ship out of Miami on Wednesday and arrive in the DR on Saturday. Maria Barroso is coordinating all the shipping and clearing for the container. Many people are bringing meds to us today. More stories to come – just love seeing folks engage with their hearts and hands!
Moise’s Prayer (1/18/2010 7:30 am CST)
From the rubble at Jean-Marc’s school, here are the verses Moise shared;
Psalm 34:1-7 ‘I will praise the Lord at all times; his praise is always on my lips. My whole being praises the Lord. The poor will hear and be glad. Glorify the Lord with me, and let us praise his name together. I asked the Lord for help, and he answered me. He saved me from all that I feared. Those who go to him for help are happy, and they are never disgraced. This poor man called, and the Lord heard him and saved him from all his troubles. The angel of the Lord camps around those who fear God, and he saves them.’
A Note from Joe (1/17/2010 10:00 pm CST)
Last night we distributed food in PAP until 3:00 am this morning. We went to an orphanage that was destroyed, but all the children survived. They were under a tarp with no food and water. When we arrived late at night, their caretaker was praying for food. Imagine his excitement when an old beater pulled up in the middle of the night with provisions.
I had the blessing of staying with Moise at his church in a rough area of Port Au Prince. Hard hit. The church building didn’t make it. The church body sure did. The group went thru the area waking up mothers (most of whom who were sleeping amidst sewage with their children) and giving them food. Some praised God saying, “manna!” Then we all laid on the ground at the church watching choppers fly, and slept a couple hours.
This morning at 6 am, we went with Moise to Jean-Marc’s school. We know that JM’s little brother, Moise Jr., narrowly made it out. He got his belt stuck in the door. He ripped it off and escaped by a whisper. JM would never leave in front of his responsibility. And he didn’t on Tuesday. This morning Moise honored JM and the Lord. He climbed atop the rubble, and read Psalm 34: 1-7
praising the Lord always.
And the day just started…
Andrew, Paul and Pete continued their amazing work keeping the DR pipeline moving. Mike and Adrien readied for a medical team and supplies. I got to go to church with Moise. Really, we just picked up the blankets and worshipped. This group – who has lost so much – praised Jesus to a fevered pitch. They then took to the streets singing and dancing. And hundreds more joined the procession. They are so certain that Jesus is who He said, that nothing – not even the pain and stench of death – can move them.
The rest of the day was almost too much to handle.
We set up a medical clinic at Moise’s church. Instantly, we got jammed with need. Infections. Gangrene. Too much.
The climax of the day was that we launched the transition site for hurting PAP children at our base camp at Croix de Bouquet. We brought in the first truckload of 38 children tonight.
As we refine the process, we’ll likely bring in hundreds more in the coming days, and, God willing, take care of many more than that in damaged and ravaged orphanages. If resources allowed, we could take into permanent care many thousands of orphans.
The process of getting the children is brutal. There are probably hundreds of thousands of parents sleeping in urine soaked trash who’d give their left arms for someone to take their children – because the kids are fading and getting sick. We have to select the orphans and highly vulnerable children in our path, and turn away from so many. Such are the decisions to be made minute by minute. Not heroic; just tough reality right now.
Tomorrow we’ll let you know more detail on need. Here’s a foreshadow:
1. keep spreading the word and raising funds – that dictates speed and scope.
2. we’ll start planning for teams to go – needing your service here (particularly at the transition site).
3. we’ll likely need 10-15 churches, businesses, families to sponsor a village to take care of the orphans we’ll need to permanently place.
You all amaze us. You continue to move the chains. There are too many of you to thank, individually. Please, keep it up. You are making a huge difference!
Let me close with this. Praise God. We started the transition village and fed so many orphans and hurting children just today. A special day. Today is Jean-Marc’s 9th birthday.
Happy Birthday, Jean-Marc Vaval. The Lord is using you to keep us strong so that many children may live.
Joe
The Orphan Village Begins, and a Group is Going (1/17/2010 6:15 pm CST)
Right now, trucks are driving from Port Au Prince to Croix de Bouquet filled with children who will be cared for at the new Orphan Village there. They shared it was tense and very emotional finding all these little ones scared and alone. It is a new beginning. More to come.
We have four folks flying out from KC very early on Tuesday, January 19 – headed to the DR and then Port Au Prince to provide some additional aid to the team. They are Beth Fox, Mike Helmuth, Joe Fox and Rob Boyer – please keep them in your prayers. Each can take two 50 lbs bags with them, and we want to fill them with antibiotics (like leviquin) and pain medications – which are in extremely short supply in Haiti right now. You can help! If you can donate some (and can network with others who can) we need them at our offices at 3000 NW 50th Street, KC, MO 64150 tomorrow/Monday. If you have questions, reach me at aland@theglobalorphanproject.org.
Haiti Orphan Relief and Rescue Update (1/17/2010 3:30 pm CST)
There is so much to share, I will try to be brief. Our team did another food and water distribution last night at Moise Vaval’s church campus until about 3 am this morning and then worshipped there at sonrise. Then, they went to Jean-Marc’s school for prayer. The Lord was definitely present and touched everyone there.
We are entering a new phase of our work in Haiti. Everywhere the team goes, they encounter numbers upon numbers of children wandering around – lost, vulnerable, hurting emotionally and physically, not knowing where to go or who to turn to. The refugee camps are ‘tough places’. The Global Orphan Project is partnering with Eben Ezer to create a transitional Orphan Village in Croix de Boquets for orphaned and displaced children. The purpose – to care for them while we work out their future. For some, they might be re-connected with relatives. For others, they might stay with the church family, and for others – we will need to build homes for them in Haiti. This village will also include newly widowed mom’s with children who need help for their kids for a time. We don’t know how many we’ll encounter, and feel this will be significant.
What can you do? A lot! Immediately, we need to get tents, mats, generators, more food, water and medical supplies to Croix for all of these children. Right now, that means we need funds to purchase them. Please Please give generously to our Haiti Relief Fund – 100% will go to this. Then, we’ll have many trips in the next weeks and months and will need clinicians and people who love kids to go and care at this village – check out our trips page later this week for details. And, we’ll have specific supply needs and will look to churches and groups to be able to fill containers with needed supplies that we’ll ship – more later on this.
And, please keep praying – it is impossible to overestimate the power of your prayers for these children and our team!
Port Au Prince at Night (1/16/2010 8:30 pm CST)
Our team has spent the evening distributing more food and water, and planning for the transition center for the mass of newly orphaned children they are uncovering – more to come tomorrow. Tonight, they are going to sleep outside under the stars at Moise Vaval’s church campus with many Haitians who are without homes – they will be lifting their voices in song to the Lord.
Haiti Team Update (1/16/2010 5:45 pm CST)
I just received some GREAT updates from the team;
- Our team has been delivering food and water to many people in Port Au Prince today, including 3 local orphanages that had nothing. While there is a mass exodus of Haitians fleeing Port Au Prince, those that remain are resilient and bonded to each other. The team is headed back to Eben Ezer to load up with more food and water and will do another distribution tonight. Our great friends from Austin on the team are ‘amazing workers, selfless and industrious’. During this outing, they all spent time with the orphans at Carrefour – the kids were good and conditions are fine. These little ones opened their hearts and prayed for Moise and his son Jean-Marc. Joe also shared that, riding down the streets of PAP at dusk, people are sleeping in the streets and singing praises to God.
- Tomorrow/Sunday, they will have an early service at Pastor Moise Vaval’s church, which was leveled by the quake. Then, they will proceed to the site of Jean Marc’s school and pray there. We should all join them and lift up the Vaval’s, the team and the church tomorrow morning. A truckload of medications will arrive at Eben Ezer tomorrow and will be used at the clinic there.
- There will be two more truckloads arriving with food and water on Monday, to be distributed. The team will spend tomorrow and Monday setting up a transition center for orphaned and displaced children – there are many, many of them, and they are vulnerable and desperately need our help.
You’ve probably heard this a lot by now, from the Presidents to every organization involved – funds are needed. 100% of your gift to our relief fund will go to food, water, medications and the transition center for these newly orphaned children.
Haiti News (1/16/2010 2:15 pm CST)
Here are some descriptions of Port Au Prince from one of our partners;
One school has 350 children buried under it. Another nursing school, 100 students. No food. Day 4 without food and water in PAP. Interviewed a family that lost 12 people. PAP not a city that can be rebuilt easily. Hundreds and thousands of people sleeping on the streets. Visit to the hospitals-no antibiotics, no medication, not enough personnel to minister to the people. No gas in PAP. Lot of people still in need of help.
Haiti Update (1/16/2010 11:15 am CST)
Our trucks arrived in Croix de Bouquets, and our team is distributing food and water locally to those in need.
We believe that Jean-Marc Vaval is in heaven with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I spoke to Moise, and he has asked for continued prayer for his family.
Joe shared that they have witnessed bulldozers moving piles of corpses in Port Au Prince.
The greatest need now is for funds to purchase food and water. Our team will do as much as they can – please contribute to our relief fund to support this.
Haiti Medical (1/16/2010 7:30 am CST)
This story comes from a couple who are clinicians and live near Port Au Prince in Mt. Joli;
Haiti Update (1/16/2010 7:00 am CST)
Mike Fox and team have crossed the border with trucks and are headed to Croix de Bouquets. Distributions of food and water in PAP will begin today.
Excavations have started on the school where Jean-Marc (Moise Vaval’s son) was. There are not words to describe these things. Please continue to pray for Moise and his family.
Haiti Update (1/15/2010 8:00 pm CST)
Here’s an evening update: Mike Fox and team got their two trucks loaded and will be heading for the border of the DR and Haiti in an hour, where they will spend the night and then proceed through into Haiti at 6 am tomorrow with the UN, en route to Croix de Bouquets and Ebenezer to unload. They spent all day loading, and will sleep in trucks at the border tonight. Joe and Moise are together searching for Jean-Marc – please continue to pray for them.
Haiti Update (1/15/2010 2:30 pm CST)
Just spoke with Mike Fox, he is in Santo Domingo with two 30 foot trucks loading 400 five gallon water jugs, 100 lbs bags of rice and beans as well as containers of oil, sardines, salt, spaghetti, sugar and tomato paste. Its all being done by hand, and they can not yet get close to the dock – so, its some heavy lifting. Their plan is to leave tomorrow morning at 4 am headed for Croix des Bouquets. Let’s pray for their work tonight and for safe travel tomorrow.
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/15/2010 11:25 am CST)
Listen to Trace Thurlby, Global Orphan Project Board Member, with an update on our situation: Haiti Update with Trace and Andy
Haiti Earthquake Update (1/15/2010 11:00 am CST)
OUR TEAM IS IN HAITI: After 2 days of travel trying to get into the ravaged country, Joe Knittig and Adrien Lewis just arrived at Croix de Bouquets, a small village just northeast of Port Au Prince. GREAT NEWS!! Pastor Claude Mondesir and all 109 children at Ebenezer are fine. There was minor damage to his campus, and Claude is exhausted – his clinic there is overflowing with injured people. There are ‘after-shock’ tremors occurring today in the area. Dony St. Germain and Dou Dou are there as well, and shared that they will want to move the 106 children to Ebenezer from Carrefour as the rubble and stench are very bad.
Joe will be headed to Pastor Moise Vaval’s church to assist him with the search for his son, Jean-Marc, at his school, Ecole La Source. Please continue to pray for them.
And, this means – all of our orphans in Haiti are well – but, they will need much food and water throughout Haiti. Mike Fox and his team are on their way with some right now.
And they’re off…
Hundreds and hundreds of you streamed forward at The BIG Event ‘09 to offer up heartfelt prayers and needs that you and your family were feeling and pin them to the wall. If you attended this event you know exactly how impactful it was, as Jeremy Riddle played “Sweetly Broken” many of us broke down the barriers we normally keep up and stepped out!
We had the opportunity to have these prayers and needs translated to deliver to children around the world, and the first batch of these cards hit our children in St. Louis de Sud, Haiti just last week. Children of all ages are now praying for you, for your family, for your church and your job. These generous spirits in tiny little bodies are at work almost singing their prayers, what a sight to witness…
Children Pray for BIG Event (Haiti) from The Global Orphan Project on Vimeo.
We know that there is real power in prayer, and God is so close to these kids their prayers (your prayers) are being heard loudly. We are asking that you continue to break down the barriers and share your answered prayers as you experience them. Feel free to comment below or email us at info@theglobalorphanproject.org and share your stories!
Also, stay tuned in the coming weeks for:
- Some incredible stories and news from the field that you’ll enjoy
- Our online catalog and end-of-year needs to help us reach our $500,000 food budget
Thanks for engaging, sharing and spreading the word.
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